How to Make Cherry Pie Filling from Fresh Cherries
Cherry pie is a timeless classic, and making your own cherry pie filling from fresh cherries can elevate the flavor to a whole new level. The process is relatively simple and can be a delightful activity to enjoy with family and friends. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make cherry pie filling from fresh cherries, ensuring that your pie will be bursting with the sweet and tangy taste of summer.
Ingredients
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 cups of fresh cherries, pitted
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of cornstarch
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Instructions
1. Pitting the Cherries: Begin by pitting the cherries. You can use a cherry pitter or a small knife to remove the pits. It is important to remove the pits to avoid any unwanted bitterness in the pie filling.
2. Mixing the Filling: In a large saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and extracts. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the sugar and cornstarch are fully dissolved.
3. Cooking the Filling: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the cherries are soft and the mixture has thickened.
4. Seasoning the Filling: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the salt. If desired, taste the filling and adjust the seasoning by adding more sugar, almond extract, or other flavorings.
5. Cooling the Filling: Allow the cherry pie filling to cool completely before using it in your pie. This step is crucial to prevent the filling from bubbling over when it’s baked.
6. Assembling the Pie: Once the filling is cooled, you can proceed to assemble your cherry pie. Follow your favorite pie crust recipe or purchase pre-made crusts. Fill the pie crust with the cooled cherry pie filling, and then top it with a lattice crust or a simple top crust, depending on your preference.
7. Baking the Pie: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
8. Cooling and Serving: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This will ensure that the filling sets properly and the pie is easy to slice.
Now that you know how to make cherry pie filling from fresh cherries, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor with a homemade cherry pie that is sure to impress. Happy baking!
